Prep Time ⇒	10 mins
Cook Time ⇒	15 mins
Protein ⇒	28.7g
Fat ⇒	16.9g
Carbs ⇒	1.2g

_{5-Ingredient Chicken Piccata}

Elevate your dining experience with this simple yet gourmet chicken piccata, featuring a delightful zesty butter and caper sauce.

_{Ingredients :}

• 3 Coles Australian RSPCA Approved Chicken Breast Fillets (about 250g each), halved horizontally
• 100g butter, chopped
• 1/4 cup (50g) drained baby capers
• 3 lemons, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley

_{Method :}

Step 1: Place a chicken breast fillet between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it reaches about 1.5 cm thick. Repeat this process for the remaining chicken fillets, ensuring they are seasoned well.

Step 2: In a large non-stick frying pan, heat 10g of the chopped butter over high heat. Cook the chicken in two batches, for approximately 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm. Reduce the heat to medium.

Step 3: Add the remaining butter to the pan. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the butter melts and turns golden brown.

Step 4: Incorporate the drained baby capers, cooking for an additional minute until they become crispy. Add the lemon juice and half of the lemon zest, swirling the mixture to combine. Return the chicken to the pan along with any accumulated juices. Cook for 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened. Sprinkle with the coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley and gently shake the pan to mix.

Step 5: Serve the chicken topped with the remaining lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

_{Recipe Facts :}

This chicken piccata not only pleases the palate but also packs a nutritional punch. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The capers add a unique briny flavor and are also rich in antioxidants. Lemons provide a dose of vitamin C, boosting your immune system.

To learn more about the health benefits of capers, check out this Wikipedia article.

For more delicious recipes, visit my blog at Hearty Recipes.

_{The nutritional benefits of the ingredients :}

The Nutritional Power of Chicken

Chicken, particularly skinless chicken breast, is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight. A 3-ounce serving of chicken breast contains approximately 26 grams of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. Furthermore, chicken is rich in essential vitamins such as B6 and B12, which support energy production and brain health. For those interested in learning more about the benefits of chicken, you can explore this Wikipedia article.

The Zesty Benefits of Lemon

Lemon juice is not just for flavor; it also packs a nutritional punch. High in vitamin C, lemons are a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, the citric acid found in lemons can aid digestion and may help in weight management. Including lemon in your diet can also enhance the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. If you’d like to delve deeper into the health benefits of lemons, check out this link.

The Role of Capers in Heart Health

Capers, often overlooked, are tiny flower buds that provide a burst of flavor and a wealth of health benefits. They are low in calories and packed with antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body. Capers are also a source of vitamins A, E, and K, as well as flavonoids that may contribute to heart health by improving circulation. For more insights into the nutritional profile of capers, refer to this Wikipedia entry.

The Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is the cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and is known for its numerous health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, it can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease. Additionally, olive oil contains antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect your body from free radical damage. To learn more about the advantages of incorporating olive oil into your diet, visit this Wikipedia page.

The Importance of Garlic for Immunity

Garlic is not only a flavor enhancer but also a nutritional powerhouse. It has been linked to numerous health benefits, primarily due to its active compounds like allicin, which have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Regular consumption of garlic may help boost the immune system, reduce blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. For those interested in the science behind garlic’s health benefits, you can read more here.

Combining Ingredients for Maximum Benefits

The combination of chicken, lemon, capers, olive oil, and garlic in your piccata recipe creates a harmonious blend of flavors and nutrients. This synergy not only enhances taste but also maximizes the health benefits. For instance, the vitamin C from lemons aids in iron absorption from chicken, while the healthy fats from olive oil facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the other ingredients. This makes your 5-ingredient chicken piccata not just a delicious meal but a nutritious one as well.

Explore More Hearty Recipes

If you enjoyed learning about the nutritional benefits of these ingredients, you might be interested in discovering more delicious and hearty recipes. Visit hearty-recipes.com for a variety of dishes that not only taste great but also contribute to a balanced diet. You’ll find meals that are easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, perfect for any occasion.